LOD in BIM is often misunderstood. Instead of guiding project clarity, it becomes a checklist of unnecessary detail—slowing down coordination and bloating models. But when used right, LOD helps teams align on what's needed, when, and why. Here’s what actually matters—and what doesn’t.
LOD 100 to 500: What Do They Mean?
LOD 100 is a concept. Basic massing, placeholders, early ideas.
LOD 200 adds approximate sizes and system layout. Good enough to study options and coordinate rough zones.
LOD 300 brings in real dimensions and proper placement. This is what most teams need for coordination.
LOD 350 includes connections, clearances, and interfaces—where trades start caring.
LOD 400 is fabrication-ready. Every nut, bolt, and bracket.
LOD 500? That’s what’s built. As-builts for facility teams.
So… What Do You Actually Need?
If you’re early in design—LOD 100 or 200 is plenty. Focus on form, fit, and feasibility.
If you’re coordinating with consultants—LOD 300 gets you aligned without overloading the model.
If you’re doing fabrication, you’ll need 400. But don’t aim for it unless fabrication is part of the scope.
LOD 500? Only if you’re handing off to a facility management team who actually uses models.
Less Modeling. More Clarity.
Overmodeling slows down your team, your files, and your decisions.
Choose LOD based on value, not ambition. Model what’s needed—no more, no less.
At the BIM builders, we scale our detail to match your project phase. Because smart BIM is about clarity, not clutter.
LOD Affects File Size and Speed.
More detail equals heavier models. And heavy models slow everyone down—especially in cloud workflows or shared coordination platforms.
Model smarter by aligning LOD with team capacity and software performance.
LOD Impacts Coordination Quality.
More detail isn’t useful if it’s inconsistent. LOD 300 done cleanly is better than 400 done poorly.
Clarity in modeling often matters more than depth. And clarity is what prevents rework.
LOD Should Be Scoped Early.
Don’t leave it vague. Your BIM Execution Plan should clearly state which LOD is expected at each milestone—per trade.
A simple table in your BEP can save weeks of confusion later.
In Conclusion: Model What Matters
The best BIM isn’t the most detailed—it’s the most useful.
Model to match your project’s needs, not your software’s limits. Keep it light, aligned, and purposeful.
At the BIM builders, we tailor every model’s LOD to suit its phase and purpose—so you’re not dragging dead weight through your workflow.
Need help defining the right level of detail for your next project? Let’s talk.
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